December, 2008
by Shannon K. Spellman, M.S.W.
For many families, the holiday season can be a stressful time. This year, with the worldwide economic struggles, parents can utilize this opportunity to teach their teenagers about giving of themselves to those who are in greater need. Find a list of local volunteer opportunities and make it a requirement of the season.
Another idea is to begin a tradition where each family member gives a gift of themselves to other family members such as a handmade coupon offering to do chores for a sibling or a certificate for a neck and shoulder massage.
If you choose to engage in purchasing material gifts, you can delegate to your adolescent the task of finding the best bargains out there for the things on their wish lists as well as gifts they would like to purchase for others.
©2008. Hiding Star Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved.
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